Oral Surgery/Complications from radiation on neck and the drug, Zometa

[wisenwell]

Looking for people that may have taken any bisphosphonates such as Zometa (cancer drug that helps rebuild bone marrow), Aredia or Fosamax and have had any complications after having oral surgery. My dentists, oral surgeons, oncology doctor and radiation doctor are in conference to discuss how to proceed with dental plan. Currently need extractions, but Zometa prohibits this, thus only leaving root canals. Radiation on my neck affected my saliva glands and I do not make much saliva which is suppose to help protect the teeth from decay. I've been told I cannot prevent further tooth decay because of this problem and that eventually I will need multiple root canals. Has anyone had this experience with radiation or the drugs mentioned.

[CARAT414]

I have been taking Actonel for about three months now. I had extensive oral surgery on May 4th, and had all my teeth extracted and part of my jawbone removed. I have/had a bone infection called osteomyletis that caused all this. They are hoping that the medication will help in the bone regeration process. So far I have had no problems from this drug at all. Not even the stomach issues that are very common. And the remaining bone has started to show signs of regeneration and my team of doctors seem to be very happy with the progression that I have had so far. I have been told that I am further ahead of schedule then originally thought.

I have never had any heart issues but at my last lab tests, where they also take my blood pressure it was high, I am now having to go in for a stress test on Friday to see if I have developed an issue, but I believe it is just from the high amount of stress that I have been under for over 18 months, and its just taking it tole. But we shall see.

I hope that I have been able to help you at least a little and I wish you the best of luck in areas of your health and hapiness.

Casey

[dodger920]

I just had some oral surgery. My oral surgeon required me to sign a waiver
of responsibility because I have taken Fosamax and more recently Actonel.
There is new evidence that this class of drugs causes jaw necrosis (death of the jawbone). Because I had an infection I had no choice but I am very worried.
He told me discontinuing the drug won't help at this point. The damage to my bones has been done by these drugs. It is so ironic that something I was prescribed for bone health and strength would be this dangerous to my bones. Needless to say I am not taking them again. I would be stupid to compound the injury.

After seeing all the posts that link this drug to lupus I wonder if that is what caused mine. I have been using these drugs for around 4 years. I need a lawyer. Meg

[chatty8484]

Wow sorry to hear of your problems.

I didn't know that either about Actonel, thanks for the info

chatty